Heads of schools in the Northern Division have asked the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs to provide clarity on who is supposed to give approval for organised programmes in schools. This is both during official and beyond official school hours. Yesterday, the committee chairperson Sakiusa Tubuna highlighted the importance of getting approval from authorities during the public consultation on the Work Care Bill (Bill No. 7 of 2025) and Accident Compensation (Amendment) Bill (Bill No. 8 of 2025) at Labasa College. Many head teachers and principals suggested that for daily programmes such as sports and bazaar the decision can be made by them or the school management and the board and for bigger events the approvals can be sought from the Ministry of Education permanent secretary. Muanidevo Primary School head teacher Darshan Singh said for school athletics, soccer, and rugby competition they must move in clusters with other schools in zones and this also needs approval. “For schools in rural areas where there can be internet connectivity issue getting approval for example such as immediate small programmes and activities can be difficult and time consuming,” Mr Singh said. “I suggest that for such kind of programmers heads of school can be given the authority to give approval.” Valelawa Primary School head teacher Abinesh Prasad asked the committee what about teachers who were engaged after official hours assisting in organising school bazaar or fundraising activities. “Apart from official working hours within the school premises, teachers also sacrifice after hours in organising school activities and who will take the responsibility if there is any accident,” Mr Prasad asked. “There needs to be a clear line of communication and system of approval sought so that someone can take responsibility if any teacher or students get involved in accident.” Mr Tubuna said they will discuss with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Employment on who can give approval to have organised programmes and activities during official and unofficial hours. “I am aware that some schools are run by Government, religious organisation, privately and some communities,” Mr Tubuna said. “We are considering giving the head of the school the authority to give approval when things happen within the school boundary and hours.” He clarified this would help reduce burden on the permanent secretary and give him time to focus on bigger programmes and events. Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj